They Called It Justice. The Real Purpose Was to Silence Women.

It was known as the Branks, sometimes called the « Scold’s Bridle. »

And for the women forced to wear it, the experience was designed to do more than punish.

It was meant to break them.

The Iron Cage of Silence

At first glance, the Branks looks like something from a nightmare.

Made of heavy iron, it was locked around a person’s head like a cage.

A metal plate or spike was positioned inside the mouth, pressing against the tongue.

Any attempt to speak could cause pain.

Any attempt to resist could make things worse.

Once secured, the wearer was often paraded through the streets while neighbors watched.

Some laughed.